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Best Dispersed Camping near Monument Valley, AZ

145 Reviews

Several dispersed camping options exist near Monument Valley, Arizona, primarily on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land in southeastern Utah. Valley of the Gods offers multiple free dispersed sites along a 17-mile dirt road loop with views of sandstone formations. Other notable areas include Muley Point in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, Mexican Hat Rock, and Butler Wash in Bears Ears National Monument. These primitive sites are located on public lands where campers can set up in established pull-offs marked by rock fire rings or in open flat areas without designated boundaries.

Many access roads require careful navigation, especially after rain when clay surfaces become slick and impassable. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for most areas, with 4WD necessary for certain locations like Butler Wash and some sections of Valley of the Gods Road. Most sites lack amenities—no water, toilets, or trash service—though Dispersed Mexican Hat Camping has toilets available. Fire restrictions vary seasonally, with some areas prohibiting fires year-round. Cell service ranges from fair to nonexistent depending on location. Camping is typically limited to 14 days.

The dispersed sites provide exceptional stargazing opportunities and scenic views of iconic desert landscapes. "Valley of the Gods sits in southern Utah near Mexican Hat. The area is somewhat of a small Monument Valley. The views surrounding the campsites are of spires, towers and red rock cliffs," noted one camper. Sites at higher elevations like Muley Point (6,300 feet) offer panoramic vistas but can experience strong winds. Summer temperatures reach extreme highs, making spring and fall more comfortable for camping. Visitors consistently mention the solitude and quiet atmosphere despite proximity to popular attractions. "This is some of the best dark skies and quiet camping we had on our trip," reported a camper at Mexican Hat.

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Detours Nearby

Valley of the Gods Road Dispersed

Valley of the Gods Road Dispersed

29 min away

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Monument Valley, Arizona (23)

    1. Dispersed Mexican Hat Camping

    36 Reviews
    Mexican Hat, UT
    23 miles
    Website

    "After entering, the dirt road to the right takes you to camping in front of the Mexican Hat there’s quite a few spots that are big rig friendly."

    "Mexican Hat is free dispursed camping on BLM land outside of the town of Mexican Hat Utah. There are sites available for RVs, tents, vans, etc."

    2. Valley of the Gods Dispersed Camping

    46 Reviews
    Mexican Hat, UT
    29 miles
    Website

    "Plus even if your vehicle can handle the soft soils you'll wreck the road for everyone once the deep ruts dry out and harden."

    "Free primitive camping with amazing views. No facilities. Pack in and pack out. Plenty of spaces to chose from."

    3. Muley Point — Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

    11 Reviews
    Mexican Hat, UT
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 574-4386

    "Crazy and scary drive coming from Mexican Hat to the south climbing up Moki Dugway to get here. It is not for the feint of heart. 11% grade, 15mph limit and gravel with some washboards."

    "Free dispersed camping on BLM land. If you don't want to back track and are continuing south, the only road down is very steep and winding and you'll want to take it slow."

    4. Mexican Hat Rock

    9 Reviews
    Mexican Hat, UT
    23 miles

    "The entry road off the highway technically goes through private land."

    "Total awesomeness 😎 I'm confused though about the sign near entrance requiring a fee with no amenities. 🤔 This is BLM land!"

    5. Valley of the Gods Road Dispersed

    10 Reviews
    Mexican Hat, UT
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 587-1500

    "This time we got the remote site we were hoping for.

    Most sites are right off the main road. Easily accessible by rv’s and cars. Our site was off the main road."

    "The first spots at the beginning of the road were meh, best for an RV not my taste for tent camping as they are super open with little privacy from the road."

    6. Valley of the Gods

    4 Reviews
    Mexican Hat, UT
    29 miles

    "Easy access with 2-wheel drive for the first .5 of the loop at least (we didn’t go any farther). Breathtaking view of the 7-sisters and plenty of flat ground for tents."

    "The valley of the gods is astoundingly, beautiful and spending the night in the valley was near perfection."

    7. Butler Wash Dispersed - Bears Ears

    4 Reviews
    Bluff, UT
    38 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 587-1500

    "No way to get to Bears Ears National Monument unless I had a 4x4 and I have a Subaru outback. Found a great spot that was completely quiet and perfect for stargazing."

    "Very beautiful spot, one of the few with shade in the monument if valley region. About a 30 min drive to monument valley. No cellphone connection."

    8. Comb Wash Dispersed Camping Area

    10 Reviews
    Blanding, UT
    47 miles
    Website

    "This is a dispersed camping area within Bears Ears National Monument. There are a few designated spots, as well as just open flat spaces where you can set up camp.  "

    "this spot was awesome. somewhat far away from amenities-Blanding is about 25 minutes away

    be prepared with water and let people know where you are-it can feel pretty isolating just because it’s dry and"

    9. Butler Wash Pay Station Dispersed Camping

    2 Reviews
    Bluff, UT
    36 miles

    "The Lower Butler Wash Road is home to many fantastic car and van camping options. The dirt road is well-maintained and suitable for most vehicles."

    "Dispersed camps are scattered all along this road to the north. No water, no trash, no toilets except the two porta-potties at the pay station. Cell signal is fair to no e depending on location."

    10. BLM Dispersed on San Juan River

    8 Reviews
    Montezuma Creek, UT
    49 miles
    Website
    +1 (435) 587-1500

    "A little difficult to find the turn off when arriving at night but a fun bumpy road down to the bluff. Beautiful river view when you awake in the morning."

    "Lots of space to choose from with no amenities good views of sunrise and san juan river, recommend a somewhat off road capable vehicle for this area."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Monument Valley, AZ

78 Photos of 23 Monument Valley Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Monument Valley, AZ

145 Reviews of 23 Monument Valley Campgrounds

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 20, 2022

    Comb Wash Dispersed Camping Area

    Awesome Area

    This is a dispersed camping area within Bears Ears National Monument. There are a few designated spots, as well as just open flat spaces where you can set up camp.  The first few spots are accessible by any vehicle, just watch the soft sandy road after a rain. 

    We found a spot close to the main road and didn't have a problem in our 26ft class c.

    Further back you'll find more sites, but you'll have to cross a wash and the sites will likely need a 4wd & high clearance vehicle.

    No cell service. 

    No amenities other than vault toilets. No garbage service.  Area was nice and clean, hopefully it stays that way.

    Some of the sites have picnic tables and a metal fire ring, but some have nothing other than a stone fire ring to mark the spot. 

    No fee.

    Beautiful area, nice hiking and walking available in this whole area.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 1, 2023

    Valley of the Gods Road Dispersed

    Easy to access amazing sunsets!

    Second time camping with my kids here. This time we got the remote site we were hoping for.

    Most sites are right off the main road. Easily accessible by rv’s and cars. Our site was off the main road. Don’t venture off the main road without high clearance and perhaps 4 wheel drive. If you can tho the few sites set up this way are even more remote and awesome!

    Only bummer was no campfires allowed at this time.

    It is hot in July, but cools off at night. Constant breeze, no bugs. Bring shade as there are no trees except for a couple of spots by dry river beds. The trees do bring bids with them…

    Amazing views and no light pollution or sound at night.

  • Fred S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 14, 2023

    Snow Flat Camp 13 - Bears Ears

    Worth the Drive Up

    Snow Flat Rd is rough in a few places for a non-high clearance vehicle, but it's worth it. This site was really good for my campervan, but I don't recommend the drive to this spot for larger campers. The site was large & relatively flat. Had a clean rock fire ring. Private area nearby for toilet setup. Wonderful view from the top of this mesa. Wildflowers were blooming at the site. Site was well off the road. There were a handful of offroaders passing by on their way to/from Comb Wash. Otherwise, very quiet & peaceful. No amenities. No T-Mobile nor AT&T service.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 24, 2024

    Picket Road BLM

    Quiet with view

    A big rig friendly place with space for several cars. The road get a little washed out the further you drive in. High clearance and 4x4 recommended especially when it’s raining. Stunning view

  • Steve M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 27, 2024

    Butler Wash Dispersed - Bears Ears

    Secluded, serene, and silent beauty!

    Way up there where it's hard to breathe! Had to do things slowly and deliberately but a beautiful setting. No way to get to Bears Ears National Monument unless I had a 4x4 and I have a Subaru outback. Found a great spot that was completely quiet and perfect for stargazing. No bear issues but no facilities of any kind whatsoever. Go prepare!

  • Casawndra P.
    Jan. 17, 2022

    Comb Wash Dispersed Camping Area

    Super Cool-Middle of Nowhere

    Comb Ridge is incredible, read about it!

    this spot was awesome. somewhat far away from amenities-Blanding is about 25 minutes away

    be prepared with water and let people know where you are-it can feel pretty isolating just because it’s dry and no service

    very spaced out-i stayed in one of the first areas so i can’t speak to how good the road is but it is dirt and sand.

    i had no service

    felt very safe!🤍

    Pack in pack out-leave no trace and that also means don’t leave trash in the campfire ring🤍

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 16, 2025

    Muley Point — Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

    360 Degrees of Unbelievable Beauty and Solitude

    Crazy and scary drive coming from Mexican Hat to the south climbing up Moki Dugway to get here. It is not for the feint of heart. 11% grade, 15mph limit and gravel with some washboards. You have to go down the way you came up unless you are going north to Blanding. There are road restrictions for vehicle size. I would not attempt when road is wet. We did our homework and were able to make it in a 22’ 2wd camper van. Huge payoff at the end with views of Valley of the Gods, Goosenecks State Park and Monument Valley. Sites are FCFS. We found a pretty level spot that was easy to back into. So quiet. It could get very windy as you are at 6300ft and no cover. But when it is calm, words don’t describe. Perfect dark sky area.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 16, 2025

    Burch Canyon Road near Natural Bridges National Monument

    Great boon docking near Natural Bridges National monument and Bears Ears

    Very nice boon docking area near Natural Bridges national Monument.  No toilets or water but the visitors center is a short drive and has restrooms open 24 hours, WIFI and fresh drinking water.  At least 20 campsites.

  • Jeff V.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 24, 2025

    Valley of the Gods Dispersed Camping

    Great Place, but bring water and firewood

    It's a breathtakingly beautiful spot with a fair amount of simple pull offs for camping.  Unless it's raining or just finished there won't be any water.  There is precious little vegetation as well, but a fair amount of rock outcroppings to block the wind, which howls come spring and is far more common than precipitation.

    Speaking of which, don't push your luck if it has rained recently, as the clay softens and becomes slick, packing around tires, and everything else.  Plus even if your vehicle can handle the soft soils you'll wreck the road for everyone once the deep ruts dry out and harden.

    Some sites have fire rings but that's the extent of facilities, although there might be a port-a-potty by the western entrance to the road, closer to the Moki Dugway.   Summers get hot, and I'd head up to Cedar Mesa if so. 

    There ample dispersed camping on Cedar Mesa, as well as plenty of scraps to get a fire going.  This is one of the greatest concentrations of smaller Ancestral Puebloan (formerly Anasazi, which is controversial and regarded as insulting by today's Pueblo tribes) villages, so there are a life time of ruins to explore.  

    Researching ahead of time will pay off, but both the BLM station by the Kane Gulch trailhead and the Natural Bridges National Monument visitor center have maps, guidebooks, and advice.  Please follow the regulations, as this is a sacred ancestral site for numerous indigenous peoples. 

    The Recapture Lodge at the east end of Bluff has decades worth of old maps to hidden sites for those who want a hotel (I recommend them highly, having visited off and on since the 1990s).  They'll give great advice if asked. 

    Both Natural Bridges and Hovenweap offer something precious in short supply across southern Utah, amazing and beautiful hiking, abundant ruins, and few visitors (this is the rare part).  Both are far more enjoyable than Arches or Zion, which are now overrun by tourists. 

    Valley of the Gods, Cedar Mesa, and the nearby national monuments (also Canyonlands, which isn't as packed as the other famous national parks) offer a chance to experience Utah's red rock country without standing shoulder to shoulder with other visitors.  That's getting increasingly difficult to find as the beauty of the region is well known by now. 

    p.s. Those wanting even more solitude should ask about the off site ruins managed by Hovenweap: you'll often have these to yourself.

Guide to Monument Valley

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Monument Valley, Arizona, where stunning landscapes and serene environments await outdoor enthusiasts. This area offers a variety of spots that cater to different camping styles, from rugged adventures to peaceful retreats.

Scenic Views for Dispersed Campers

  • The Valley of the Gods provides breathtaking vistas and ample dispersed sites, making it a perfect choice for those seeking stunning scenery and solitude.
  • Campers at Muley Point — Glen Canyon National Recreation Area can enjoy incredible views of the San Juan River and Monument Valley, especially during sunset.
  • The Mexican Hat Rock area offers unique rock formations and a beautiful river setting, ideal for those who appreciate dramatic landscapes.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Monument Valley, Arizona

Unique Experiences for Dispersed Campers

  • Campers at Butler Wash Pay Station Dispersed Camping can explore nearby hiking trails to ancient ruins, adding a cultural touch to their outdoor adventure.
  • The Old Hwy 163 Dispersed area is perfect for those seeking a historical experience, with remnants of the past visible along the old highway.
  • Enjoy the tranquility of the Valley of the Gods where the night sky is filled with stars, providing an unforgettable stargazing experience away from city lights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find dispersed camping in Valley of the Gods?

Valley of the Gods Dispersed Camping offers multiple pull-offs directly from the main road that winds through this scenic area. These sites are typically simple, with no facilities but spectacular views of the towering rock formations. For additional options, Dispersed Mexican Hat Camping provides several big-rig friendly spots, including sites in front of the iconic Mexican Hat rock formation. The area has multiple access points with camping opportunities scattered throughout the valley.

Do I need a 4WD vehicle to access dispersed camping in Valley of the Gods?

Most camping areas along the main Valley of the Gods road are accessible with standard vehicles. At Muley Point — Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, which offers dramatic views above Valley of the Gods, you'll need to navigate the steep Moki Dugway gravel road (11% grade) to access the area. For the main valley floor, Picket Road BLM reviews indicate that while main roads are typically passable in any vehicle, high clearance and 4WD are recommended for venturing off the main road, especially during or after rain when roads can become muddy or washed out.

What are the regulations for overnight camping in Valley of the Gods?

Valley of the Gods is on BLM land where standard dispersed camping regulations apply. At Valley of the Gods Road Dispersed, you can camp for up to 14 days in any 28-day period. There are no fees, permits, or reservations required. Pack out all trash, practice Leave No Trace principles, and use existing fire rings when possible. Be aware that there's no water, toilets, or other facilities available. The area experiences strong winds in spring, and camping may be restricted during extreme fire danger periods.

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